In-ground camera

ABSTRACT

An apparatus and method is provided for a unique camera experience, wherein the camera is placed in an in-ground position permitting recording or broadcast of a camera perspective that is along the surface of or above the surface of the ground. In an exemplary embodiment, the in-ground camera comprises high definition camera components utilizing a prism along the optical path. In another exemplary embodiment, the camera package is rotatable within its enclosure to effect adjustment of the image horizon. In another exemplary embodiment, the camera package includes an adjustable iris to effect adjustment of the exposure of the image.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/089,123 filed Aug. 15, 2008; and, to United States Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/044,222 filed Apr. 11, 2008, the entire contents of which are specifically incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Camera coverage is an essential part of every broadcast sporting event. For example, racing enthusiasts will easily recognize that a large number of cameras are routinely utilized to provide full coverage of a racing event, oftentimes with multiple cameras in each turn, multiple cameras at various elevations above the racing track, cameras within race cars, and multiple cameras in the pit. There are also other applications that would benefit from such an in-ground camera system, e.g. other types of roadways, etc.

What is needed in the art are other unique products and methods for enhancing the amount and quality of recorded or broadcast coverage from sporting event or other surfaces.

SUMMARY

The presently described apparatus and methods provide a unique camera experience, wherein the camera is placed in an in-ground position permitting recording or broadcast of a camera perspective that is along the surface of or above the surface of the ground.

In an exemplary embodiment, the in-ground camera is secured within the surface of a racetrack, and the upper surface portion of the camera housing provides only smooth or low-profile transition surfaces. This discrete footprint ensures that the camera does not endanger drivers and minimizes potential damage to the camera that might otherwise result from being run over thousands of times by more than 40 cars traveling at great speeds. To this end, the surface comprises an exemplary hardened material, such as stainless steel, that is resistant to the forces of high-speed vehicles passing thereover.

In exemplary embodiments, the upper surface portion of the camera housing comprises an at least partially dome like surface that is devoid of exposed pointed edges. In other exemplary embodiments, the camera rises a maximum distance of 0.25 inches above the surface of the track, although somewhat higher or lower distances are contemplated. Also, in exemplary embodiments, the at least partially dome-like surface has a diameter of about 4 inches to provide a gentle transition between the track surface and the top surface of the camera housing, although somewhat larger or smaller diameters are contemplated.

In other exemplary embodiments, the in-ground camera is secured to a base portion, which is in turn secured within a hole in the surface of the racetrack. Thus, at least the upper surface portion of the camera housing and primary elements of the camera itself may be removed from the fixed base portion and transferred to other base portion locations. In exemplary embodiments, a dummy plate is configured to secure over base portions not being used by a camera. In embodiments, the dummy plate is configured to be generally flat or flush with respect to the racetrack surface.

In other exemplary embodiments, the in-ground camera incorporates a microphone to provide audio with the camera video.

In other exemplary embodiments, the in-ground camera incorporates an air or fluid spray system for cleaning the lens of the camera during use. The shape of the camera surface, with its cutout camera view section, and/or the speed of the vehicles can also be used to quickly dry any water sprayed on the lens.

In other exemplary embodiments, a high definition in-ground camera utilizes a lens and prism configuration to receive high definition images.

In other exemplary embodiments, the in-ground camera utilizes a mechanically adjustable iris.

In other exemplary embodiments, the in-ground camera is rotatable within a housing to change the horizon of the image.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like elements are numbered alike in the following FIGURE:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary in-ground camera;

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of an exemplary installed in-ground camera;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of the exemplary in-ground camera of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a side cross sectional view of the exemplary in-ground camera of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a perspective cross sectional view of the exemplary in-ground camera of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a lower perspective cross sectional view of the exemplary in-ground camera of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a lower side perspective cross sectional view of the exemplary in-ground camera of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a lower perspective cross sectional view of a the exemplary in-ground camera base of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is an illustration of drilling in preparation for installation of an exemplary in-ground camera;

FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of another exemplary in-ground camera;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the exemplary in-ground camera of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a perspective cross sectional view of the exemplary in-ground camera of FIG. 10.

FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of an exemplary high definition in-ground camera;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional cutaway view of the camera of FIG. 13, wherein the top has been removed showing the lens;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional cutaway view of the camera of FIG. 13 illustrating the motorized iris control elements and horizon adjustment elements;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional cutaway view of the camera of FIG. 13 illustrating the lens mount, the conduit channel and horizon adjustment elements;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional cutaway view of the camera of FIG. 13 illustrating the CMOS imager;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional cutaway view of the camera of FIG. 13 illustrating the imager printed circuit board;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional cutaway view of the camera of FIG. 13 illustrating a heat sink utilized to regulate imager temperature;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional cutaway view of the camera of FIG. 13 illustrating a printed circuit board for data control of camera elements;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional cutaway view of the camera of FIG. 13 illustrating roller bearings utilized to facilitate rotation of the camera for adjustment of the image horizon; and

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional cutaway view of the camera of FIG. 13 illustrating a multi-pin connector for facilitating quick installations and removal of the in-ground camera relative to the ground.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

As is discussed above, the present invention relates to an in-ground camera apparatus and method for providing recorded or broadcast media from a ground surface. While the following exemplary application will describe, for convenience, the camera as being installed within the surface of a race-track, it should be understood that other surfaces and uses are contemplated herein.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an exemplary in-ground camera is illustrated generally at 10. The illustrated camera includes an upper surface portion 12 and a base portion 14. As is illustrated, the upper surface portion 12 of the camera provides only smooth or low-profile transition surfaces. In an exemplary racetrack application, this discrete footprint ensures that the camera does not endanger drivers and minimizes potential damage to the camera that might otherwise result from being run over thousands of times by more than 40 cars traveling at great speeds. To this end, the surface comprises an exemplary hardened material, such as stainless steel, that is resistant to the forces of high-speed vehicles passing thereover.

The illustrated exemplary upper surface portion 12 of the camera may be described as an at least partially dome like surface that is devoid of exposed pointed edges. In exemplary embodiments, the camera rises a maximum distance of 0.25 inches above the surface of the racetrack surface, although somewhat higher or lower distances are contemplated. Also, in exemplary embodiments, the at least partially dome-like surface has a diameter of about 4 inches to provide a gentle transition between the track surface and the top surface of the camera housing, although somewhat larger or smaller diameters are contemplated. In other exemplary embodiments, the lower edges of the upper surface portion 12 are depressed in relation to the surface of the racetrack such that a car cannot reach the edge of the upper surface (e.g., to make the camera system more secure).

Referring again to FIG. 1, the in-track camera is secured to the base portion 14 (e.g., by the six illustrated screws 16), which base portion 14 is in turn secured within a hole in the surface of the racetrack. Reference is made to FIG. 2, which illustrates the exemplary camera 10 of FIG. 1 installed in the surface 18 of a racetrack.

As will be discussed in more detail below, at least the upper surface portion 12 of the camera housing and primary elements of the camera itself may be removed from the fixed base portion and transferred to other base portion locations. In exemplary embodiments, a dummy plate (not shown) is configured to secure over base portions not being used by a camera. In embodiments, the dummy plate is configured to be generally flat or flush with respect to the racetrack surface 18.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the upper surface portion also includes a camera lens 20 and a lens view cutout, shown generally at 22. The upper surface portion may also include an air or fluid spray system for cleaning the lens of the camera during use. This system utilizes air or fluid channel 24 to direct air or fluid at the lens 20. The shape of the camera surface, with its cutout camera view section, and/or the speed of the vehicles can also be used to quickly dry any water sprayed on the lens.

The illustrated exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 also includes a conduit channel 26. During installation, a conduit would be drilled underneath the racetrack surface and aligned with the conduit channel 26 of the camera. Thus, media data may be passed from the camera through the conduit underneath the racetrack surface. Wireless transmission may also be used along with or in lieu of the conduit.

FIG. 3 illustrates a front elevation view of the exemplary camera of FIG. 1. From this elevation, the rounded surfaces of the upper surface portion 12 may be seen as well as the portion of the air or fluid channel 24 that directs air or fluid towards the lens 20.

FIG. 4 is an exemplary illustration of how the primary elements of the camera (shown generally at 28), which are housed within the upper surface portion 12, interface with the base portion 14. Vibration isolators 30 may also be provided in the interface between the upper surface portion 12 and the base portion 14.

A series of cross sectional perspective views will illustrate the construction of the exemplary camera of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 illustrates the six mounting screws 16 of the upper surface portion 12, the camera lens 20, and a portion of the camera primary elements 28. FIG. 6 is a lower elevation cross section that more fully shows the primary camera elements 28 and the air or fluid conduit 24. FIG. 7 also more fully shows the primary camera elements 28, which would be removed with the upper surface portion 12, upon separation from the base portion 14. FIG. 8 shows the exemplary base portion 12.

Referring to FIG. 8, the exemplary base portion includes fastener holes 32 for securing the base within a hole in the racetrack. Brief reference is made to FIG. 9, which illustrates drilling of a hole in the racetrack surface 18, into which the base portion 14 would be secured. Fastener holes 34 correspond with and receive fasteners 16 (FIG. 1) for securing the upper surface portion 12 to the base portion 14. Indented portions 36 are also illustrated, which portions provide room for the primary camera elements 28 to nest therein when installed with the upper surface portion 12. Conduit channel 26 is also illustrated for routing media conduit. Finally fluid or air supply conduit 38 is also illustrated for feeding an upspout 40, which is connected to the air or fluid channel 24 in the upper surface portion 12.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, another exemplary camera is illustrated generally at 10. In this embodiment, the entire illustrated camera is detachable via securing interface and media conduit 42. Portion 44 houses the primary camera portions. Notably, this exemplary embodiment includes two air or fluid channels 24, each directed towards the lens 20. FIG. 12 illustrates the dual air or fluid channels 24 as well as connected feed channels 25 in cross section.

FIG. 13 illustrates another exemplary embodiment, shown generally at 50, incorporating a high definition camera package 56. As may be appreciated from FIGS. 13-22, this exemplary embodiment facilitates use of high definition camera components by utilization of a prism 58 between the camera lens iris and the enclosure window 60.

In additional exemplary embodiments, provision is made to permit the camera package 56 to rotate within the enclosure such that the image horizon may be adjusted within a secure and (in other exemplary embodiments) waterproof enclosure. In the embodiment illustrated at FIG. 13, the camera package 56 is contained within an inner enclosure 54 that holds the camera package 56. The cameral package 56 is configured to rotate within the inner enclosure in part through the use of roller bearings 82 (see FIG. 21). FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate an exemplary gear configuration that controls the degree and direction of camera rotation while the camera is installed in the track.

Referring again to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 13, the inner enclosure 54 is housed within an outer enclosure 52, which may be permanently installed in the track. As in earlier embodiments, a conduit channel 26 facilitates hard connection of the camera's multipin connector 66 (see also FIG. 22). Thus, quick installation into or removal from the outer enclosure 52 may be performed.

Referring again to FIG. 13, the camera may include a microphone (e.g., a broadcast quality low sensitivity microphone) 64. As with earlier embodiments, the illustrated exemplary embodiment also includes a port 24 to allow for a jet of air or liquid to facilitate remote cleansing of the lens window 62.

Referring now to FIG. 14, the illustrated cutaway shows the lens that is adapted for use (by interfacing with the prism) in a high definition camera configuration.

Referring now to FIG. 15, the illustrated cutaway shows the lens removed and illustrates the exemplary motorized iris control. Gear component 70 is configured to adjust the image exposure. As was noted previously, gear component 68 is configured to permit adjustment of the image horizon by rotating the camera package 56. Similarly, the opening to the conduit channel 26 is illustrated.

Referring now to FIG. 16, the illustrated cutaway shows the lens mount, which may be configured to accept, e.g., ⅓ inch lenses, ½ inch lenses, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 17, the illustrated cutaway shows an imaging component 76. In one exemplary embodiment, the imaging component is a ⅓ inch CMOS 720/1080/SD switchable imager. The illustrated cutaway of FIG. 18 shows an exemplary imager printed circuit board (PCB) 74. The illustrated cutaway of FIG. 19 further shows a heat sink 78 configured to regulate the imager temperature.

Referring now to FIG. 18, the illustrated cutaway shows an exemplary PCB 80 for data control of the camera. Any convenient protocol may be used, e.g, RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, Visca Protocol, etc. In exemplary embodiments the PCB 80 may be configured to allow an component analog HD video output. In other exemplary embodiments, the PCB 80 may be configured as being switchable via a HD-SDI board version configuration.

The above-described exemplary cameras provide an added dimension to racing by capturing images and/or sound of cars racing by, below and/or right over the camera. The camera is provided with a unique enclosure and upper surface configuration that emphasizes safety, stability and durability (e.g., by nature of the shape of the camera, exemplary waterproofing of the package, etc.). Also, embodiments designed with removable camera and dummy plate portions drastically reduce operating costs associated with covering plural events, since cameras need not be purchased for each position, but instead can be removed and relocated when actual coverage is not necessary (e.g., practice or open track days). Other exemplary configuration provide for self-cleaning mechanisms that ensure use and operability of the camera throughout the event.

Further, embodiments utilizing an adjustable iris and/or horizon control advantageously provide image control for the camera (such embodiments are also advantageous in allowing image adjustment in higher force inducing environments, such as installations in race track surfaces). Also, embodiments permitting high definition camera use (configured with use of a prism to facilitate a good image to camera package optical path) provide the ability to see great detail in the in-ground application. Other such embodiments advantageously give switchable flexibility with regard to the output standard of the image (e.g., selection of standard definition imaging, 720 high definition imaging, 1080 high definition imaging, etc. as well as the possibility of selection of output format given suitable data control hardware, e.g., HD-SDI PCBs, component analog high definition, etc.).

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art and science of cameras that, while exemplary embodiments have been shown and described, various modifications and variations can be made to the in-ground camera apparatus and method disclosed herein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the various embodiments have been described by way of illustration and not limitation.

What is claimed is: 

1. An in-ground camera, comprising: an in-ground, secure, recessed mounting interface; and a camera package, the camera package including a camera iris in optical communication with an camera window via a prism; wherein the camera package is configured to rotate within the mounting interface to adjust the image horizon as perceived by the camera.
 2. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 1, further comprising an upper surface portion, the upper surface portion operatively associated with the camera window, wherein the upper surface portion is devoid of pointed edges and provides a downwardly concave profile having a camera window, wherein the camera window and prism is configured to provide a lens view along a surface of or view upward from the surface of the ground.
 3. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 1, wherein the camera package includes primary camera components and a media output interface or cable.
 4. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 2, wherein said upper surface portion and said camera package are detachable from said in-ground, secure recessed mounting interface.
 5. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 4, wherein said in-ground, secure, recessed mounting interface comprises a base portion that is secured within a hole in the ground and that is configured to receive the upper surface portion and camera package.
 6. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 5, wherein said base portion includes at least one recess for receiving at an inner enclosure, which inner enclosure houses the rotatable camera package.
 7. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 6, wherein said camera package is rotatable by at least one of ball bearings and a gear in tooth mechanism.
 8. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 1, wherein said ground comprises a racetrack surface.
 9. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 2, wherein said surface portion comprises a hardened material that is resistant to the forces of high-speed vehicles passing thereover.
 10. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 2, wherein the camera rises a maximum distance of about 0.25 inches above the surface of the ground.
 11. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 2, wherein the upper surface has a diameter of about 4 inches to provide a gentle transition between the ground surface and the top surface of the camera housing.
 12. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 2, wherein the in-ground camera upper surface incorporates a microphone to provide audio with camera video.
 13. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 2, wherein the in-ground camera upper surface incorporates an air or fluid spray system for cleaning the lens of the camera during use.
 14. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 1, wherein the in-ground camera package comprises high definition camera components.
 15. An in-ground camera, comprising: an in-ground, secure, recessed mounting interface; and a camera package, the camera package including high definition camera components having a camera iris in optical communication with an camera window via a prism.
 16. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 15, further comprising an upper surface portion, the upper surface portion operatively associated with the camera window, wherein the upper surface portion is devoid of pointed edges and provides a downwardly concave profile having a camera window, wherein the camera window and prism is configured to provide a lens view along a surface of or view upward from the surface of the ground.
 17. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 1, wherein the camera package includes high definition primary camera components and a media output interface or cable.
 18. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 2, wherein said upper surface portion and said camera package are detachable from said in-ground, secure recessed mounting interface.
 19. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 18, wherein said in-ground, secure, recessed mounting interface comprises a base portion that is secured within a hole in the ground and that is configured to receive the upper surface portion and camera package.
 20. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 15, wherein said ground comprises a racetrack surface.
 21. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 16, wherein said surface portion comprises a hardened material that is resistant to the forces of high-speed vehicles passing thereover.
 22. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 16, wherein the camera rises a maximum distance of about 0.25 inches above the surface of the ground.
 23. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 16, wherein the upper surface has a diameter of about 4 inches to provide a gentle transition between the ground surface and the top surface of the camera housing.
 24. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 16, wherein the in-ground camera upper surface incorporates a microphone to provide audio with camera video.
 25. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 16, wherein the in-ground camera upper surface incorporates an air or fluid spray system for cleaning the lens of the camera during use.
 26. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 15, wherein the in-ground camera package includes an adjustable camera iris.
 27. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 26, wherein the iris is adjustable via a gear in tooth configuration to adjust exposure of the image.
 28. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 16, wherein lower edges of the upper surface are depressed relative to the surface of the ground.
 29. An in-ground camera in accordance with claim 15, wherein the camera package is waterproof
 30. An in ground camera in accordance with claim 15, wherein the mounting interface is configured to receive a dummy cap in the alternative to the camera package. 